Top Tips for Navigating Construction Zones

7/21/2015

Summertime is here and that means road trips. You might be taking a trek across the country, or just a quick weekend getaway, but it’s highly likely you’ll encounter road construction on your way. Help keep yourself and construction workers in these zones safe by following these top tips this summer:

Merge as soon as possible

Motorists can help maintain traffic flow and posted speeds by moving to the appropriate lane at first notice of an approaching zone, instead of waiting at the last chance.

Maintain the posted speed limit

33 states and Washington, D.C. double the fine for speeding or (committing other traffic violations) in a work zone.

24 states and the Washington, D.C. require workers to be present in the construction zone for the increased penalties to take effect.

40 states and the Washington, D.C. indicate that signs must be posted to alert drivers of the enhanced penalties.

Obey road crew flaggers

Construction zone workers have the same authority as a regulatory sign, so if you disobey the flagger, you might be cited for failing to obey.

Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you

Rear-end collisions are the most common type of crash in a construction zone. Don’t tailgate.

Don’t change lanes in the work zone

It might be tempting to pass a vehicle in a construction zone, but the time saved just isn’t worth the chance of causing an accident.

Concentrate on the road, not on the construction

Construction zones are full of unusual activity. Don’t get distracted.

Minimize distractions

Avoid changing the radio and other electronics while driving in work zones.

Expect the unexpected

Be alert and keep an eye out for workers and their equipment.

Be patient and remain calm

Usually delays at work zones are minor, but remember this work is necessary. Workers are there to improve roads for everyone.

If your road trip does hit an unexpected snag, get back on track with Farm Bureau’s Emergency Roadside Assistance coverage. Our 24/7 dispatch service will send reliable professionals to help you out. Schedule a SuperCheck with your Farm Bureau agent before your trip to ensure our Roadside Assistance coverage will be there for you when it matters most.

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